Believe it or not, but there are days that I struggle to do this…where working out is the last thing I want to do. Running on fumes with little sleep the night before…dreading…hating each and every second of the workout.  So the question is why?  Why do I still burn anyway?  Because the pain of not doing it is much greater.  And the potential consequence of initiating a downward spiral to the “dark side” is worth the price I pay on days like these.  Because I take great satisfaction in being a role model to my kids…I’m their human amusement park. I take satisfaction in them trying to keep up with me.  I do it because it grooves a pattern of toughness each and every time…both physically and mentally, making everything else the day throws at me seem elementary.  I do it because in a World that can be uncertain and when life seems to be handing my ass to me,  it’s still the one thing I have control over.  Besides…your health is one of God’s greatest gifts to you…and I’ll be damned if I’m going to take that for granted.  I burn because I know energy begets energy…even when I feel I have none… I always prove myself wrong (right) each and every time. I do it because, with each workout, each set, each rep, I know after 23 years of consistency (and counting…) that it yields greatness beyond my wildest dreams.  I do it because it calms the storm inside, creates clarity, and allows me to hear that inner voice guiding me on life’s journey.  Most of my best ideas have come in the middle of a workout and have been a major catalyst to all of my most prized accomplishments.  I do it because I take great satisfaction in hearing others mutter, “That guy’s crazy” while I’m working out.  But the reality is…not doing it…that’s what is truly crazy.  Giving up your gift of health for everything that will be irrelevant in a day, a week, a month, a year…a lifetime. That’s crazy.  Your health is what is truly important.  It’s a gift that is within you…waiting to be unwrapped, opened…cherished.  It’s so much deeper than to “look good”…that’s just the added bonus.  Dedicating yourself and making a commitment to your health will open up all the doors of opportunity and self discovery.  So what are you waiting for?